Following a thumping 5-0 win against St. Johnstone in the 5th round of the Scottish Cup, Celtic will next to turn their attention to the Europa League where they take on Valencia.
The Hoops have played quite a lot of games of late, but they have been in scintillating form after the winter break and the fans will hope their side can keep up the run come Thursday.
Celtic Team News
Oliver Burke hobbled off the pitch in the second half against the Saints, but should be back for the European tie. Kieran Tierney hasn’t trained too many times, and it remains to be seen if Brendan Rodgers will recall the full-back.
Tom Rogic is still out owing to a knee injury, and centre-back Filip Benkovic is also unavailable due to his ankle injury.
Predicted Celtic Lineup
Defence
Scott Bain is expected to be in goal yet again despite the availability of Craig Gordon. Bain has kept a clean sheet in all of his last 12 games and is in good form.
Kristoffer Ajer and Dedryck Boyata have a tough game coming up against an established Valencia attack.
Jeremy Toljan and Jonny Hayes might operate as the full-backs. Toljan has nailed down a regular place already at the right-back after arriving on loan from Borussia Dortmund last month, and needs to make his presence felt in against Valencia.
Midfield
Callum McGregor’s passing range and ability to break forward will be crucial against Valencia, especially on the counter-attacks. He is expected to get the nod from Rodgers to start in the central midfield alongside Scott Brown.
Due to the absence of Rogic, Ryan Christie has managed a good run of games in the first team, and is expected to keep his place against the Spanish side.
Attack
James Forrest might take up his usual position on the right-wing, and he will be tasked with the responsibility to stretch the Valencia defence.
Scott Sinclair’s hat-trick in the weekend must have raised his confidence, and he might get the not to start on the left flank
Burke has had a good start to his Celtic career, having scored three goals in five Scottish Premiership games. His pace, finishing, and physicality will be key against Valencia.
